According to IAG's recent report, severe storms, including hailstorms, are becoming more prevalent in densely populated regions of southern Australia. This escalation in extreme weather events is directly influencing the risk profiles that insurers use to determine premium rates.
William McDonnell, IAG's Chief Financial Officer, emphasized that while various factors affect insurance pricing, the component related to natural disasters is gradually increasing. He noted that areas more exposed to these perils are experiencing more pronounced premium hikes.
The report also forecasts that tropical cyclones may become more intense and affect regions further from the tropics, including south-east Queensland, New South Wales, and south-west Western Australia. These areas may face heightened risks, as existing infrastructure may not be designed to withstand such severe weather conditions.
Over the past five years, the Australian insurance industry has paid out $22.5 billion in claims for extreme weather events, marking a 67% increase compared to the previous five-year period. This surge underscores the growing financial impact of climate change on both insurers and policyholders.
In response to these challenges, IAG advocates for coordinated efforts between governments and the insurance sector. Recommendations include establishing consistent state and federal guidelines on natural hazard risk tolerance, creating a national property-level hazard database, and updating building codes to reflect changing hazard profiles. Additionally, planning major infrastructure with a long-term perspective that accommodates climate projections is deemed essential.
For beauticians and small business owners in the beauty industry, these developments highlight the importance of reviewing and updating insurance policies to ensure adequate coverage against emerging climate-related risks. Staying informed about changes in insurance premiums and understanding the factors driving these increases can aid in making informed decisions to protect business assets and operations.
